The Grand European Getaway: Eat, Explore, Experience Croatia and Slovenia with Chef Richard Gruica and The Gourmet Vacation

April 19–26, 2026

Join Chef Richard Gruica, the founder of The Gourmet Vacation on a culinary journey that captures the soul of two of Europe’s most flavorful and underrated destinations: Croatia and Slovenia.

Chef Richard Gruica is the founder and creative force behind The Gourmet Vacation, a boutique culinary travel company that blends unforgettable food experiences with authentic cultural adventures. As a chef, storyteller, and global explorer, Richard curates immersive journeys that connect travelers with the world’s most inspiring chefs, artisans, farmers, and winemakers.

From cooking classes in hidden kitchens to tastings with culinary legends, Richard’s trips are designed to celebrate place, people, and flavor. His passion for food and travel — and his talent for building meaningful relationships around the table — make every Gourmet Vacation feel personal, enriching, and one-of-a-kind.

Whether it’s seafood in Peru, truffles in Istria, or street eats in Hong Kong, Richard’s mission is simple: to create extraordinary moments through food that guests will remember for a lifetime.

✨ Trip Highlights:

• Start in Venice, then head into Slovenia’s wine-rich hills of Goriška Brda, often called the "Tuscany of Slovenia," for wine tastings and terrace lunches with sweeping views

• Wander the storybook seaside town of Rovinj, dine in its historic core, and settle into coastal luxury!

• Step into the ancient Roman world with a private tour of Pula’s amphitheater

• Feast at Batelina, Croatia’s famed seafood temple helmed by Chef David Skoko

• Go truffle hunting in Buzet, then enjoy a truffle-laced lunch and a visit to a rustic hilltop distillery

• Meet Slovenian sausage master David Lesar of BioSing and taste his globally acclaimed charcuterie after exploring the incredible Postojna Caves

• Enjoy a true farm-to-table day with Michelin-starred Chef Luka Košir, including a visit to his      duck farm, a goat cheese maker and a tasting meal at his Michelin-starred Grič

• Sail across Lake Bled, visit the island’s iconic church, and tour its hilltop castle

• Craft your own one-in-a-million gin and savor a Michelin meal at Gostilna Mahorčič

• And then…

Experience the Magic of the Orange Wine Festival-Nestled along Slovenia’s sparkling coastline, Izola comes alive during the Orange Wine Festival, one of Europe’s most unique and exciting wine events. You’ll meet natural winemakers, taste rare and expressive orange wines, and enjoy live music, street food, and coastal charm.

It's not just a tasting—it’s a celebration.

Why This Trip Stands Out

This is not your average food tour—it’s a thoughtfully curated, immersive experience that brings you up close with the artisans, chefs, winemakers, and cultural moments that define the spirit of the region. You'll explore deeply, dine meaningfully, and travel with intention alongside Chef Richard and The Gourmet Vacation.

From the rolling vineyards to the edge of the Adriatic, from Michelin-starred meals to underground sausage tastings, and from ancient ruins to modern culinary festivals—this trip will ignite your senses and leave you full of stories, flavors, and joy.

Join us for an unforgettable adventure where heritage meets innovation, and every bite tells a story.

Come for the food. Stay for the magic.

Sunday, April 19th

Day 1 – Tour Kickoff-Toast the Journey: Wine Country Beginnings

Welcome to The Grand European Getaway: Eat, Explore, Experience Croatia and Slovenia with Chef Richard Gruica and The Gourmet Vacation

Your journey begins in the romantic city of Venice, where you’ll meet your fellow travelers, and Chef Richard Gruica, the founder of The Gourmet Vacation. Chef Richard will guide us through a week of deep culinary discovery, heartfelt hospitality, and unforgettable flavors.

Before noon, we’ll depart Venice in private transport and head straight into the rolling green hills of Slovenia’s famed Goriška Brda wine region, often called the “Tuscany of Slovenia.”

Our first stop? A gourmet welcome lunch on a hilltop terrace, surrounded by terraced vineyards and panoramic views. Hosted by the vibrant duo Nejka and Chef Uroš, this multi-course feast showcases the best of local Istrian cuisine—from their famed in-house prosciutto and slow-raised meats to fresh vegetables and handmade delicacies. Each course is paired with exceptional sparkling, natural, and orange wines, setting the tone for the flavor-forward week ahead. The venue itself is a vibrant celebration of food, wine, and artistic expression.

In the late afternoon, we cross into Croatia, letting the landscape shift from vineyard-draped hills to Adriatic coastline. Our final destination for the day is the stunning seaside town of Rovinj, a gem of the Istrian Peninsula known for its Venetian charm, vibrant colors, and coastal beauty.

We’ll check into the elegant 5-star Hotel Lone, our luxurious home base for the next few nights—nestled just a short stroll from the sea.

After some time to unwind and settle in, we’ll keep things casual with a cozy pizza dinner just steps from the hotel. It's the perfect way to ease into the week—simple, satisfying, and shared with new friends, fresh ingredients, and a glass of local wine (or two).

A beautiful beginning to a week of discovery, connection, and indulgence.

🚨 Important Arrival Note:

Guests are responsible for arriving in Venice, Italy no later than 10:00 AM on Sunday, April 19th, when the tour officially begins. To ensure a smooth and stress-free start, we highly recommend arriving on or before Saturday, April 18th. Anyone arriving late will need to arrange their own transportation to the first hotel in Rovinj.

At the end of the journey, we’ll transport all guests to a central drop-off point, after which onward travel and accommodations will be on your own.

Important Note Regarding Currency

For all of our European journeys with The Gourmet Vacation, please note that the trip price is listed and payable in Euros (€). All transactions on our end are processed in Euros, as this is the local currency of the destinations we explore.

We truly appreciate your understanding, as this ensures smooth operations with our partners abroad and allows us to deliver the seamless, authentic experiences you’ve come to expect.

Thank you for being part of these adventures—we can’t wait to welcome you!

🏨 Overnight Stay: Hotel Lone – 5-Star Luxury in Rovinj, Croatia

Monday, April 2oth 

Day 2 – From Ancient Arenas to Olive Oil Dreams: A Day of History, Art & Michelin-Recommended Indulgence

Prepare to journey through millennia as we set off for the storied coastal town of Pula, a gem of Istria with a history stretching back more than 3,000 years. At the heart of this seaside city stands the majestic Roman Amphitheater, known simply as The Arena—one of the world’s best-preserved Roman coliseums. You’ll enjoy a private guided tour that transports you back to the days of gladiators and emperors, as we stroll beneath stone archways and along ancient streets rich with myth and memory.

From the echoes of antiquity, we move into a town buzzing with contemporary creativity: Vodnjan. This small, unassuming village is home to two of Croatia’s greatest treasures—world-renowned olive oil and a vibrant street art scene that has transformed the town into a colorful open-air gallery.

We’ll visit Chiavalon, Croatia’s most awarded olive oil producer, whose oils have been recognized as the world’s best for eight consecutive years. Here, you’ll discover the passion and precision behind every bottle as we tour the groves, learn about centuries-old cultivation methods, and taste the golden elixir straight from the source. Whether it’s peppery, grassy, or buttery, every drop tells a story of Istria’s land and labor.

But the day’s not over yet—far from it.

This afternoon, we make our way to the small fishing village of Banjole, where an extraordinary dining experience awaits at the Michelin-recommended Batelina, the family-run seafood haven of Chef David Skoko, one of Croatia’s most celebrated chefs and a champion of sustainable, sea-to-table cuisine.

Here, surrounded by the salty breeze and a table full of the Adriatic’s finest offerings, you’ll enjoy a multi-course seafood feast crafted with precision, tradition, and Chef Skoko’s unmistakable flair. From raw preparations to grilled masterpieces, each dish is inspired by the day’s catch and elevated by his deep respect for the sea.

After a full day of flavor, culture, and connection, we return to the serene comforts of the 5-star Hotel Lone in Rovinj, with hearts full and appetites thoroughly satisfied.

🏨 Overnight Stay: Hotel Lone – 5-Star Luxury in Rovinj, Croatia

Tues, April 21st

Day 3-Sniff, Sip & Savor: Truffles, Spirits & Sausages

After checking out, we’ll kick off the day with a picture-perfect stop overlooking Motovun, a breathtaking hilltop town boasting some of Croatia’s most stunning vistas. Then, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and dive into the heart of Truffle Country for an exhilarating truffle hunt! Led by a local expert and their talented dogs at Prodan Tartufi, we’ll venture into the forest in search of these prized underground gems. Our reward? A decadent truffle degustation lunch to savor the rich, earthy flavors of our finds.

Next, we visit a charming distillery, Aura,  where we’ll uncover the secrets behind their expertly crafted spirits. A guided tour will take us through their fascinating process, followed by a tasting of their finest creations—cheers to that!

Our adventure then takes us across the border into Slovenia, where we head to BioSing, where we’ll meet the legendary master sausage maker, David Lesar. His family’s craft dates back to 1492, blending artistry and tradition to create some of the world’s most coveted sausages. We’ll tour his cellar, indulge in a tasting of these exquisite creations paired with exceptional wines, and enjoy a meal featuring his signature “koznca” sausages—plus a delicious surprise!

Finally, we arrive in Ljubljana, Slovenia’s storybook capital, steeped in history since the 12th century, and check into our boutique hotel.

Overnight Stay- Boutique Hotel in Ljubljana, Slovenia

Wed, April 22nd

Day 4-Farms, Stars, and Culinary Delights: A True Chef Farm-to-Table Experience

A Stroll Through Time & Taste

We begin the morning with a guided walking tour through the historic heart of Ljubljana, Slovenia’s storybook capital, whose roots stretch back to the 12th century.

Winding through cobbled lanes and elegant bridges, we’ll uncover the layers of history tucked between pastel façades and riverfront cafés. Along the way, we’ll wander through the bustling farmers' market, where local growers, cheesemakers, and bakers proudly display the flavors of the region.

It’s a morning of strolling, tasting, and soaking in the vibrant rhythm of a city that feels both timeless and wonderfully alive.

A Farm-to-Table Feast with Chef Luka Kosir

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary adventure with the incredible Chef Luka Kosir and his talented team! At his renowned restaurant, Grič (Slovenian for “hill”), Chef Luka takes traditional Slovenian cuisine to new heights with his innovative, farm-driven approach. Nearly 80% of what we’ll enjoy today comes straight from his family farm, including fresh produce, forest-foraged delights, and even heritage breed ducks raised with care. Plus, we’ll visit a top-notch artisanal goat cheese farm for a true taste of Slovenia’s rural charm.

Artisanal Cheese & Ducks Galore

Our journey begins with a scenic drive through Slovenia’s picturesque countryside. First, we’ll visit one of the region’s finest cheese makers, Sirarstvo Oresnik where we’ll meet the friendly goats behind these award-winning cheeses and get a behind-the-scenes look at the artisanal process. Then, it's off to Chef Luka’s duck farm, where he has been raising heritage breeds since 2013, keeping Slovenia’s farm-to-table traditions alive. This immersive experience offers a unique look at the full circle of sustainable food production.

Michelin-Star Magic

The highlight of our day awaits at Brunarica Grič, Chef Luka’s Michelin-starred restaurant, which also holds a prestigious Michelin Green Star for its dedication to sustainability. Here, we’ll savor a meticulously crafted multi-course tasting menu, each dish thoughtfully paired with exceptional wines. Chef Luka’s inventive take on local flavors makes for a dining experience that’s both refined and deeply connected to the land—a true feast for the senses!

After this incredible meal, we’ll return to Ljubljana. The rest of the evening is yours to explore at your own pace—whether it’s strolling along the river, discovering charming cafés, or simply soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Overnight Stay- Boutique Hotel in Ljubljana, Slovenia

Thurs, April 24th

Day 5-Lakeside Legends and Alpine Adventures

A Fairytale Day in Bled

Our adventure begins with a scenic drive to the enchanting town of Bled, tucked away in the breathtaking Julian Alps. Here, we’ll glide across the iconic Lake Bled aboard a traditional wooden Pletna boat—these charming handcrafted vessels have been ferrying visitors since the 1500s! Our destination? Slovenia’s only island, home to the picturesque Church of Mary the Queen, the most photographed spot in the country.

A Taste of Tradition

After our boat ride, we trade captain’s hats for aprons.

Waiting for us is a heartwarming Slovenian lunch… made by none other than YOU.

We’ll step into a hands-on cooking class with the folks from the Bled Cooking Class where flour will fly, stories will simmer, and the kitchen will smell like pure countryside comfort. On the menu:

Rićet – a soulful, slow-simmered barley and sausage stew, rich with smoked meats, root vegetables, and the kind of depth that only patience can create. This is Slovenian comfort in a bowl, the dish that warms villages through long winters.

Ajdovi Krapi – tender buckwheat dough pockets filled with creamy cottage cheese, then crowned with crispy bacon bits and a drizzle of golden pan juices. Rustic, hearty, unapologetically satisfying.

Štruklji – a beloved Slovenian classic. Rolled dough wrapped around sweet cheese filling, baked until golden, and served warm. It’s the kind of dessert that doesn’t ask for attention… it simply earns it.

And then, the best part. We sit down together and feast on our creations, sharing laughter, local wine, and the deep satisfaction that only comes from cooking something with your own hands.

This isn’t just lunch. It’s Slovenia on a plate.

Castle Views & Alpine Magic

Next, we’ll climb to the legendary Bled Castle, a stunning medieval fortress perched high above the lake. From here, soak in the jaw-dropping views of the shimmering lake and the surrounding Alpine peaks—a scene straight out of a storybook.

After a day filled with unforgettable sights and flavors, we’ll return to Ljubljana, where you can spend the evening however you please—whether it’s relaxing in a cozy café or exploring more of this vibrant capital.

Overnight Stay- Boutique hotel in Ljubljana, Slovenia

Friday, April 24th

Day 6-From Rose to Orange: A Day of Coastal Charm and Wine Wonders

Coastal Bliss & a Toast to Orange Wine

Today, we say goodbye to Ljubljana and head for the sun-soaked shores of Portorož, Slovenia’s lively seaside escape on the Adriatic. Known as the "Port of Roses," this vibrant resort town is the perfect blend of relaxation, charm, and coastal beauty.

Our stay? None other than the stunning Hotel Palace Portorož—a grand, palatial hotel with a rich history of hosting royalty. With its breathtaking sea views and luxurious comforts, it’s the ideal retreat before we dive into an unforgettable evening.

Underground Adventures

Along the way, our adventure then takes us underground for a mesmerizing exploration of the world-famous Postojna Caves. A scenic train ride whisks us deep into the heart of these magical underground caverns, where we’ll embark on a gentle walking tour through their awe-inspiring formations.

The Orange Wine Festival – A Sip of Something Extraordinary

Next, we’re off to the nearby coastal town of Izola for a truly special experience: the Orange Wine Festival. Set against the dazzling Adriatic backdrop, this annual celebration brings together winemakers and enthusiasts from around the world to showcase the incredible depth and diversity of orange wines.

But what exactly is orange wine? Despite its name, it has nothing to do with oranges! Instead, it's a unique style of wine made from white grapes that undergo skin-contact fermentation, much like red wine. This centuries-old method gives the wine its striking amber hue, rich flavors of dried fruits, nuts, and spices, and a beautifully complex, tannic texture. Between tastings, lively conversations, and discovering new favorite bottles, this festival is a true highlight of our journey. After a day filled with coastal breezes, a meal, and a well-earned rest—gearing up for even more adventures ahead!

Overnight Stay- 5-Star Hotel Palace Portorož in Portorož, Slovenia

Sat, April 25th

Day 7-It’s Time for More Wine!

Today, we check out of our hotel in Portorož and return to Slovenia’s wine country for Brda & Wine

Set in the postcard-perfect medieval village of Šmartno, this beloved spring festival transforms the cobbled lanes into an open-air celebration of flavor. More than 30 chefs cook live in the streets, Brda’s winemakers pour their finest vintages, music drifts through the hills, and market stalls overflow with local honey, olive oil, cheeses, dried fruits, and artisan treasures.

What began as a wine lover’s gathering has evolved into the region’s most exciting culinary event, where beautifully crafted plates meet world-class Brda wines. Unlimited tastings, guided wine experiences, cooking shows, and lively street performances make the day delicious from start to finish.

Our experience includes unlimited tastings of top-quality wines and freshly prepared dishes, live music, and a commemorative tasting glass to carry it all.

After a full day of sipping, savoring, and celebrating, we’ll retreat to our nearby boutique hotel for a well-deserved evening in wine country.

Overnight Stay- Dam Boutique Hotel in Nova Gorica, Slovenia

Sun, April 26th

Day 8-Fond Farewells

As our unforgettable journey winds down, we say goodbye to our luxurious Slovenian stay and make our way back to the canals of Venice.

As we return to Venice, we carry with us not only the flavors of this adventure, but the memories made with Chef Richard and our incredible group—a week filled with discovery, joy, and the kind of moments that linger long after the plates are cleared.